Spots and Surfing conditions

Want to know more about Zanzibar’s Surf spots and surfing conditions? Zanzibars surf spots are not listed in any of the surf forecast pages and hence it is difficult to find reliable information.

You are probably wondering if Surfing in Zanzibar offers some great conditions for all levels and we are happy to tell you: Yes it does.You find uncrowded and untouched surf spots along the southeast coast with mainly right hander waves.

Zanzibar’s Reefs

The reef in Zanzibar is not as gnarly as some other tropical islands surfing spots. It’s generally flat and rocky. Some surfing spots can be home to many sea urchins (spikey crustations you don’t want to stand on) but our beginner friendly spot is almost urchin free. Dolphins are seen regularly along the coastline and often join you for a surf session. There can be strong currents and rips depending on the moon phase and time which can make surfing in Zanzibar a bit tricky at times. We do not recommend solo missions out as it can be frustrating or even dangerous when surfers do not know when and where to go.

The two Surfing Seasons

During the December to March season we do get anti- cyclones in the indian ocean which can send some proper ground swell our way, and that’s when all sorts of surf spots start working. Throw in an offshore day and we have surf breaks where you can trade small barrels and share fun fast running waves with only a handful of surfers out.

The June to October season is usually our most favourite season with consistent swells and super fun waves. Our popular intermediate / advanced spot starts to work then and even tho it isn’t a spot that can be surfed daily, the wave makes totally up for it on the good days.

Why is Zanzibar still an unknown surf destination?

Waves in Zanzibar are not easy accessible, you can not surf all day long, winds and tides play a huge role in the quality of waves and the list goes on. Zanzibar as a surf destination has not yet peaked major interest because surf times are restricted and consistency is not guaranteed. The island archipelago of Zanzibar is also quite chancy for waves, which means the knowledge of where to go is an essential and surfing without a guide not really much of an option. Swell and wind directions are vital to get any form of decent wave to surf as well as tides and moon faze. Different sections on the reef break on different conditions and some are really worth the boat trip out for a surfing session and others not at all.

What else should I know about surfing conditions in Zanzibar?

Surfing lessons and surf trips need to be well timed, as surfing in Zanzibar is limited to 1.5 – 3 hours of good surf a day. The reason being are the big tidal changes on the island. Surfing lessons need to be timed to the pushing mid tide to get the beginner surf spot working at its best. The more advanced surfing spots start to work with the last hour of the dropping tide and best over low tide and the first push after the tides change but again this depends on the moon phase as the drop can have heavy currents.

The Verdict

So should you really choose Zanzibar as your next surfing destination? Yes and no. Yes for anyone who is a beginner up to low level intermediate who wants to learn and improve in a beautiful warm water destination with consistent beginner friendly conditions and no hustling huge crowds. Yes also to all the intermediate and advanced surfers who are chasing fun waves and good vibes and are up for a mix of surfing, relaxing and exploring holiday. No for all those who want to surf from morning till evening, have an easy accessible wave and can just grab a board and paddle out whenever they feel like.